What can we do to maintain a clean and safe environment in the winter months?

Cleansweep logo, illustrated garbage can picking up trash
Submitted image.

Residents of the Residential Housing Units, winter is here and it is here to stay. It may be early this year, however it should not deter us from doing the things we all must do to be safe and maintain a clean environment.

  1. Ensure your steps and walk ways are clear of snow and ice.
  2. Spread salt and sand mixture on your walkways and steps.
  3. In particular, after Xmas ensure large cardboard boxes are broken down.
  4. Keep your window wells clear of snow and debris.
  5. Ensure the down spots are in place and positioned to allow the water to drain away from your residence.
  6. Please refer to your Town of Petawawa Collection Schedule for details on waste management, in particular types of waste pickup on your scheduled day.
  7. Pick up after your Pets.
  8. Please read your Occupant Handbook www.Canada.ca/military-housing or The Garrison Petawawa Administrative Instructions to help you navigate through the whys and hows. A simple phone call is all it takes for advice or guidance.
  9. Skating Rinks - to prevent damage to lawns and landscaping, the installation of skating rinks is not permitted.

During the winter months take advantage of the outdoor skating rinks located both on the north side and south side. The north side rink has a warming and change room situated directly beside the rink. The Silver Dart Arena staff will be making ice soon as the weather permits. Play Safe!

Parking on streets during winter makes it very difficult for snow removal, and sand and salt crews cannot be effective. In addition, the waste management vehicles have a difficult time picking up the garbage. To mitigate this issue, please use the overflow parking in your area, including your guests. Vehicles that are left on the streets may be towed at your expense.

The By Law Enforcement Officer has seen a noted difference this year, and he understands there are often challenges when it comes to parking. There are, of course, exceptions, particularly when construction is ongoing.

There is always a workable solution; it may not be perfect, one may have to walk a short distance, but in the end the intent is to facilitate both maintenance of our streets and individual parking. Thank you for your cooperation!

The two dog parks in the residential community have been a great success. Picking up after our furry friends is essential to the parks staying open. There does not seem to be an issue to date. Kudos to those residents who clean up garbage and waste. Well done!

I have noticed in the past kids building snow forts. Forts with no roofs are not the issue, it is the igloo type fort, particularly on the end of the driveway or on the corners of the yard close to the street, “THAT ARE THE ISSUE.” Let’s police ourselves so we do not have any accidents.

Residents: If you are planning on being away from your residence for more than 48 hours, please ensure you complete the Extended Absence Form, which can be obtained at CFHA. A simple e-mail to CFHA is fine.

Why is this so important? Imagine being away and a water pipe bursts, or there is work that must be done, ie. change a water tank or furnace, the list goes on. A contact on your behalf is critical. This not only protects your belongings, but the asset as well.

I mentioned in the last article the construction projects in progress on many of the streets in the RHUs were not to miss. Parking away from your residence, dealing with the dirt and debris and the disruption of your daily routines were just some of the pitfalls.

Well there is light at the end of the tunnel - new roads, sidewalks, driveways, not mud, deep holes and heavy equipment. Residents you have displayed much patience and perseverance during this construction.

Stay the course, there is still much to do, all in the effort to provide a living environment we can all be proud of. THANK YOU!!

The Canadian Forces Housing Agency and 4th Canadian Division Support Services Petawawa wishes the Garrison Petawawa Residential Housing community have a safe and happy holiday.

Pro Patria